The Detroit Pistons’ dream trade target to help Cade Cunningham would be Boston Celtics guard Derrik White, but he may never become available. Adding a guy like White, whose offensive versatility and defensive stature would fit beautifully next to Cunningham, should be the Pistons’ next goal as a team.
In an ideal world, Jaden Ivey turns into that type of player—a guy who can take on top defensive matchups while also providing offensive support. But up to this point in his career, he hasn’t been able to stay healthy enough to give Detroit much consistency. As a result, hitting the trade market could be a smart idea for the Pistons.
But White probably won’t be available anytime soon (if ever).
Pistons' dream target should be Derrick White
When looking at what could benefit the Pistons the most, it’s a guy who can be an elite offensive support to Cunningham while also not giving up much on the defensive end.
Duncan Robinson has been incredible for Detroit. His offensive production and three-point shooting have given the Pistons the exact type of floor spacing that they need alongside Cunningham.
However, Robinson gives up a lot on the other end of the floor. Opposing teams relentlessly hunt him on defense, and a lot of the time, they get easy buckets by bringing him into the action.
Meanwhile, Ausar Thompson has struggled staying on the floor (at times) for the opposite reason. He’s an elite defender, but teams can ignore him on the offensive end.
That’s why a player like White would be perfect. He’s a defensive menace (he’s top 10 in the league in stocks), roaming around the floor, blocking shots, and taking on high-tier matchups.
All the while, his ability to play on and off the ball on offense gives the Celtics an elite option next to Jaylen Brown. He can take guys off the dribble, score in the lane, and create for himself and others.
But he’s also an elite off-ball threat. His three-point shooting has given Boston a great boost for the past few years, and next to Cunningham, it would be perfect.
If there were ever a window for Detroit to trade for White, they should offer the farm for him. But based on how much the Celtics love White and the fact that they’ll be competing for titles once Jayson Tatum returns, he may never become available.
Detroit can dream all it wants, but a trade for White will likely never come to fruition.